We often covet the mountain top experience
With its picturesque view of the valley below
To live in the clouds
To achieve the dream
To lay claim to the victory
To stand in triumph at the top of the world.

But life lived on the mountain top is unsustainable
The air is cold and thin
The environment is often harsh and barren
And mountain tops can be -rather lonely
With their gorgeous views and deceptive perspectives
They are wonderful to visit, but do we really want to live there?

The valleys are where we find our purpose
Yes, the view is less enticing at lower altitudes
The ground must be prepared for seed
Rocks must be removed so crops can grow
Our hands become blistered from hard work
And unexpected floods or droughts can destroy all that we create.

But life is found in the valleys
Wildlife graze on lush green grasses
Houses are built that become homes
Community is stumbled upon, cultivated and then cherished
We labor together, grow together and dream together
Then as we look up toward those distant peaks, we discover the strength to embark on the next adventure.